2022 Recap: My Favorites
Before we dive deep into everything fresh, new, and exciting waiting for us this year, I really want to pause for a moment and rewind to appreciate all the little and big things that made 2022 feel so genuinely special for me. Last year, more than anything, taught me to pay closer attention to what actually makes my day-to-day life feel good — the things that made me smile on the most ordinary days and the simple comforts that turned even a gloomy afternoon into something soft and comforting.
Some days, that looked like slipping into a cozy outfit I knew I’d feel good in, without second-guessing it in the mirror. Other times, it was the tiny home touches — the familiar scent of a candle burning in the background, the warm weight of my favorite blanket, the small ritual of watering my plants that made my little space feel more alive and more like me.
I also realized how powerful it is to build small rituals that break up the rush and noise of everyday life — like brewing that perfect cup of coffee in the morning instead of rushing out the door, or carving out a little time at night to jot down my thoughts in a notebook instead of doom-scrolling myself to sleep. These tiny choices added up to big moments of calm and joy, and honestly, they’re what helped me stay grounded and content when life got busy or overwhelming.
So, here’s my honest and heartfelt look back at my 2022 favorites — the pieces I reached for on repeat, the moments that made me pause and smile, and the tiny luxuries I treated myself to that I know I’ll keep carrying with me, season after season, year after year. If anything, this little recap is my reminder that the real magic is usually hiding in the simplest places — in the everyday things we love, the little habits we create, and the tiny ways we make our lives feel softer, cozier, and more true to who we are.
Favorite Fashion Staples
One thing 2022 taught me is that less is more — as long as you really love it. These were the clothes and accessories I found myself reaching for again and again, no matter the season.
- Oversized Blazers
If I could only pick one fashion piece I wore the most, it would be my oversized blazers. Throw one on over a plain tee and suddenly you look cool, put together, and like you might just own your own business. My go-to was a simple black one for an effortlessly chic vibe, plus a plaid one when I wanted to add a little classic pattern to the mix. - Wide-Leg Trousers
2022 was the year skinny jeans took a back seat in my wardrobe. Wide-leg trousers were my secret weapon — comfy enough for errands, polished enough for work or dinner, and somehow they always made my outfits feel a bit more grown-up without trying too hard. - Classic White Sneakers
I wore my trusty white sneakers into the ground. They worked with literally everything — dresses, jeans, trousers, leggings — and always made an outfit feel fresh and intentional, even if I was just running to the store or grabbing a coffee.
Favorite Home Comforts
I spent a lot more time at home in 2022, which pushed me to invest in the little things that turned my space into my own personal retreat. Small changes, big cozy vibes.
- Endless Scented Candles
Lighting a candle became part of my daily ritual. It’s wild how a simple vanilla or sandalwood candle can make your entire place feel warm and comforting. Bonus: It smells like you live inside a fancy boutique. - Chunky Knit Blankets
If you didn’t have at least one giant, chunky throw last year, were you even doing it right? I loved curling up under mine on lazy Sundays with a cup of tea and a good book. Plus, it made my couch look so inviting. - Houseplants Galore
2022 was the year I became a plant parent for real. A couple of new pothos and a dramatic fiddle leaf fig instantly made my home feel alive and fresh. And they’re surprisingly low-maintenance — which is perfect for me.
Favorite Everyday Luxuries
It’s always the little things that make your day better. These were the small daily habits or treats that made my 2022 feel softer around the edges.
- Leveling Up My Coffee Game
I finally ditched the basic coffee routine and upgraded to a good grinder and a milk frother. Making a proper latte at home every morning turned into my daily moment of calm — plus it saved me from too many overpriced café runs. - Journaling Before Bed
I picked up the habit of writing down a few thoughts before sleep. Nothing fancy — sometimes a gratitude list, sometimes just a brain dump. But it helped clear my mind and wind down on busy days. - Sunday Self-Care Rituals
Sundays became my favorite day last year. I started blocking out time for myself — hot baths, fresh sheets, hair masks, the whole slow reset. It made Mondays feel way less intimidating.
Favorite Music and Podcasts
2022 had its soundtrack — songs and voices that kept me company on walks, while cooking, or when I needed motivation.
- Album I Couldn’t Stop Playing:
Harry’s House by Harry Styles was basically on loop for me. No skips, no shame. - Podcast That Inspired Me:
The Diary of a CEO gave me so much to think about — honest stories, big ideas, and reminders to stay grounded. - Go-To Chill Playlist:
A mix of acoustic covers and soft indie tracks. Perfect background for journaling, reading, or just doing absolutely nothing.
Favorite Simple Joys
Beyond clothes and candles, 2022 was full of tiny joys that reminded me how good the everyday can be when you slow down a bit.
- Spontaneous Little Trips
Sometimes the best memories came from quick weekend getaways with zero planning. A night in a cozy cabin, a last-minute road trip, a quick city stay — simple but so refreshing. - Trying New Recipes
I spent more time in my kitchen than ever — mostly messing up fancy recipes but occasionally nailing them. Banana bread, hearty soups, or roast veggies became my comfort food staples. - More Time Offline
I made a conscious choice to unplug more in 2022. Less doomscrolling, more real-life moments. Walks without my phone glued to my hand were tiny acts of freedom.
What These Favorites Taught Me
Looking back, my biggest lesson from 2022 is that small, intentional things can transform your everyday life. A good blazer can lift your mood. A candle can change your whole vibe. Cooking at home or listening to a podcast on a walk can make a normal day feel like something to celebrate.
These weren’t big, flashy purchases — they were thoughtful choices that made me feel more like me. And that’s exactly the energy I’m carrying into this year: less mindless buying, more meaningful keeping.
Table of Contents
FAQs — 2022 Recap
Q: What was your single favorite purchase last year?
A: Probably my oversized black blazer — it worked for casual outfits, work calls, dinners out, everything.
Q: What candle scent did you burn the most?
A: Vanilla mixed with sandalwood was my top pick. Cozy, clean, and not too strong.
Q: What plant was easiest to care for?
A: My pothos, hands down. Basically indestructible and grows fast — instant green magic.
Q: Did you stick to journaling every day?
A: Not perfectly! Some weeks I forgot, but even jotting down thoughts a few times a week made a huge difference.
Q: Favorite moment from a spontaneous trip?
A: Watching the sunrise from a tiny Airbnb cabin in the woods. Zero cell service, just coffee and good company.
Conclusion: Why This Recap Matters
Taking a moment to look back on what I loved in 2022 reminds me how the simplest joys can shape a whole year. Trends come and go, but comfort, ease, and a little everyday magic never get old.
So here’s to carrying forward what worked: pieces that make you feel good, small rituals that calm your mind, tiny luxuries that turn an ordinary day into something special.
If you’re planning your own reset this year, maybe think about your own tiny favorites — the little habits and treats that make your daily life shine a bit brighter. Sometimes it’s not about chasing new trends — it’s about loving what you already have, even more.